Hazardous Materials: Carbon Monoxide Toxicity

No. FP-2012-8 February 21, 2012

Learning Objective: The student shall be able to identify common symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure.

hen the hotel guest pulled the chair back from the desk, he
was startled to see what appeared to be the improper placement
of a smoke alarm beneath a desk. Further investigation revealed
it was a carbon monoxide (CO) detector.
COs specific gravity is 0.9657 (air = 1) so it is slightly more
buoyant and mixes easily with room air, especially if the air is
heated. Proper detector placement is essential to provide early
notification.
According to the Federal Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA), the maximum CO exposure in an
8-hour period is 35 parts per million (ppm). When one
considers exposure with a victims age and health, the potential
consequences are alarming. CO poisoning is often confused with
the flu-like symptoms of headache, nausea, and dizziness, so a CO
exposure is easily masked.

The location of this carbon monoxide detector

acknowledges the specific gravity of the toxic gas.

The following table describes the potential symptoms, including death, from assorted levels of CO exposure.
Remember that these are general numbers only, and may differ for individuals who are exposed.
CO Airborne Exposure Level (ppm)
100
400
400
800
1,600
1,600
3,200
3,200
6,400
6,400
12,800

Average Duration (minutes)

120180
60120
150210
45
20
60120
510
60
12
2530
13

Typical Symptoms
Slight headache
Frontal headache
Widespread headache
Dizziness, nausea, seizure
Headache, dizziness, nausea
Death
Headache, dizziness, nausea
Death
Headache, dizziness, nausea
Death
Death

See Coffee Break Training 2011-45 Attention to Detail for information on CO safety tips.

Eligible for Continuing Education Units (CEUs)

at www.usfa.fema.gov/nfaonline

For archived downloads, go to:

www.usfa.fema.gov/nfa/coffee-break/